Campers at Rolling River Day Camp in East Rockaway spent the afternoon of July 24 cheering for "Big Blue" and practicing football drills with two-time Superbowl Champion and NY Giants offensive lineman, Kevin Boothe. Many campers participated in a variety of football drill stations led by Boothe that included a football toss, punting practice and an agility obstacle course. Boothe stated it was a great preview for Giants training camp, which started at the Meadowlands Complex in New Jersey on July 26.
In addition to football camp, Boothe hosted intimate meet and great sessions with every camper and counselor at Rolling River. The Giants star was all smiles and high-fived the campers as he posed with each group. Campers and staff alike were excited to have their Giants gear autographed by the Superbowl Champion and each camper also received an autographed poster.
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According to Rolling River Director Mark Goodman “It is not every day that you meet a professional athlete so humble and down to earth. You could notice his passion for the kids as countless campers asked him questions about his career in the NFL.” Two lucky campers, involved in a camp writing program known as the River Reporters, even received the opportunity to interview Boothe. According to Mr. Boothe, “I had such a great time at Rolling River. The kids I met are truly special!” Boothe also said he is eager to sport Rolling River Day Camp gear at Giants training camp this month.
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Boothe, a 2005 graduate of Cornell University and originally from Queens, New York, donated his time in order to give back to a community hard hit by Hurricane Sandy. Knowing that so many campers and staff are still re-located from the storm, Boothe felt this would be a special experience to take their minds off of the re-building process. In recognition of his kindness, Rolling River will donate a 2014 “Campmates Scholarship” in his name for a child nominated by Peninsula Counseling Center of Valley Stream. The Campmates Program allows local children to receive a complimentary camp session at Rolling River thanks to a variety of fundraisers and donations.
